In a touching rescue mission, the Tsavo Mobile Veterinary Unit, sponsored by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT), acted swiftly to save the life of Ex Orphan Elephant Emily, who was discovered with a distressing arrow wound.
This incident sheds light on the growing challenges of human-wildlife conflict, particularly during the dry season, when elephants venture beyond park boundaries in search of sustenance.
On the late afternoon of October 12, 2016, in a Conservancy between Tsavo East and West National Parks, numerous wild herds, each exceeding 200 elephants, gathered at a waterhole.
Among the bustling activity, one herd stood out as its members refused to move away.
Concerns arose when a female elephant from this herd repeatedly approached the fence, displaying a somber demeanor hinting at distress.
Closer inspection revealed an object protruding from her side, prompting an urgent call for veterinary intervention.
With daylight dwindling, the decision was made to wait until the next day for the operation. At dawn, the Conservancy Anti-Poaching team tracked the herd, led by the troubled female, back to the waterhole.
The distressed elephant turned out to be Ex Orphan Emily, accompanied by her herd of Ex Orphans.
The DSWT-funded Tsavo Mobile Veterinary Unit, led by Dr. Poghon, promptly sprang into action.
Dr. Poghon darted Emily, and as she succumbed to the tranquilizers, the team carefully turned her over to begin treatment.
The source of her agony was unveiled – a small handmade arrowhead embedded in her side, a stark reminder of the ongoing human-wildlife conflict.
The harsh dry season and disruptions caused by the construction of the Standard Gauge Railway have intensified the challenges wildlife faces in the area.
After successfully removing the arrowhead, Emily regained her strength and rejoined her patiently waiting family.
The conservancy management closely monitored the herd’s activities, and fortunately, Emily’s wound healed rapidly in the subsequent days.
This poignant rescue underscores the crucial role played by organizations like the DSWT in mitigating the impact of human-wildlife conflict and ensuring the well-being of these majestic creatures.
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